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Posted August 29, 2018 by Kevin Spear, M.D. Summa Health Urology
Perhaps you and your partner are thinking of a more permanent solution to birth control. If you’ve had the conversation of vasectomy versus tubal ligation - “getting your tubes tied” - you might be interested to learn that a vasectomy is a much easier procedure, is more effective at preventing pregnancy and has a much lower risk of side effects or complications. It’s also much cheaper; tubal ligation requires general anesthesia and surgery; a vasectomy only requires local anesthesia and an oral sedative.
If the idea of a vasectomy has crossed your mind but you may have some reservations, below are 5 things to know.
A few side effects, while very rare, do include: infection at the incision site and a condition called sperm granuloma. This happens when a lump forms from leaking sperm where the vas deferens has been tied or blocked off. Because sperm are still producing after the procedure, this can cause a build-up in the duct behind the testes and testicle. Usually, these small lumps cause no problems and disappear on their own. However, some may require an anti-inflammatory or antibiotic to help them clear.
You should call your doctor if you have a fever over 101° F, or pus coming from the incision site and/or excessive pain or swelling in your scrotum or testicle area. These symptoms could be a sign of an infection.
Learn more about the vasectomy procedure at Summa Health, including recovery time, effectiveness and potential complications.
Whether you and your partner are struggling to get pregnant, or you’ve made the decision to no longer be able to have children, Summa Medical Group urologists are ready to discuss your treatment options. Our highly qualified physicians perform outpatient vasectomies, as well as provide the latest in infertility testing and treatments. For more information about our urology services, call 330.374.1255.